Again, we managed to maintain Gold for the biannual Singapore International Band Festival 2010. This time round, we competed in a tougher division (Open Division) with bands of high standards. We even competed with professionals from Hong Kong. Only difference is that this time round, we didn't sweep the top prize of $10,000 and the champion trophy for Open Division.

It was really a tough fight.

1st (Champion) - Hong Kong Festival Wind Orchestra: 91.83%
2nd - Maris Alumni Wind Ensemble: 90.83%
3rd - Philharmonic Youth Winds: 90. 67%

Nevertheless, receiving the gold award was really satisfying even though many of us had a tinge of disappointment. But at the end of the day, like how I've been telling my juniors back in my former secondary school, it's the experience, journey and lessons that we've picked along the way that makes us even better. Building up a community band is never easy. And I am glad and always honoured to be a member of the Philharmonic Youth Winds. We've come so far, and to think of it, I can't wait for the end-year concert in December. Making music with Phil Youth was never boring.

After reading the e-mail, typed by our resident conductor, positive feelings erupted in me as I read the second paragraph *winks*.

Last but not least, a huge thank you to Mr Chiang, Mr Cheong, Mr Leonard Tan, guest players, Phil Winds' musicians, supporters of Phil Youth, and of course, musicians of Phil Youth.

To more music making.
Go Philharmonics!